Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missile interceptors set up in central Tokyo

Japan’s Defense Ministry early Tuesday deployed a Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missile interceptor unit at its premises in Ichigaya, Tokyo to prepare for a possible ballistic missile launch by North Korea.

The move follows Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera’s order on Sunday to the Self-Defense Forces to be ready to shoot down North Korean missiles if they reach Japan. The Maritime SDF has sent Aegis cruisers with missile interception capabilities to the Sea of Japan.

The Air SDF’s PAC3, also planned for deployment at SDF sites in Asaka and Narashino in the Tokyo metropolitan area, are tasked with covering against any missile attacks on Japan that escape interception by Aegis ships.